CTE is for the Career and College Bound

In today's workplace, continued education and training are givens. CTE programs include a sequence of 3 or 4 high school courses taken in addition to the academic core classes of math, science, English and social studies. Students completing both the academic requirements and a CTE program have the advantage of graduating from high school prepared for college and the workplace.

In addition, many CTE students are enrolled in career academies, which are small, personalized learning communities located in high schools. They are designed to provide students with college preparatory curricula with an integrated career theme. There are nearly 1,500 Career and Professional Education (CAPE) academies located throughout Florida.

CTE Students are able to Earn College Credits and Certification to give them an extra advantage after earning their diplomas.

It's true! Many of the nearly 300 CTE programs offered around the state provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit, industry-recognized certifications or both. As an added bonus, nearly every CTE program connects to a similar state college program which makes it possible for students to transition from high school to college.

CTE Students apply what they learn in Academic Classes - and this applied learning increases Retention and Understanding!

For example in the Pre-engineering program, Project Lead The Way, students apply skills learning in higher level math courses to real world engineering projects, under the guidance of professional engineers/mentors. Some of our CTE courses even count as academic credit!

CTE Instructors are Professionals teaching with up-to-date equipment and technology.

CTE teachers have worked in their fields and/or hold professional degrees as part of their certification. Industry advisory boards help schools design and equip learning labs. For example, Culinary Arts students work in commercial quality kitchens; Cisco (computer networking) students use state-of-the-art networking software, and Automotive Technician students hone their skills using tools, equipment and curriculum recommended by The National Automotive Training and Education Foundation (NATEF).

Parents and Students can save Money!

High school is the only time individuals can obtain an education focused on career preparation without writing a tuition check! High school students can earn licenses and credentials, often at a reduced cost compared to the cost of obtaining certifications*** and licenses outside of high school. CTE students can also save money on college tuition by earning college credit. Students completing CTE programs obtain knowledge and skills that can help them achieve better paying jobs while they are attending college.

Additionally, in Florida, CTE students who complete three or more CTE courses within a prescribed program and who meet other standards are eligible for the Gold Seal Vocational Scholarship.

Programs are designed for the Future.

Florida industries and businesses partner with local school districts, state colleges and the Florida Department of Education to create programs of study that prepare students with the knowledge and skills required for current and future careers in today's global economy.

Internships and work-based learning opportunities provide "real world" work experiences and the prospect of developing a professional network.

CTE programs frequently include a final internship or work-based learning experience which helps students develop a network of co-workers and managers who may also become valuable references.

Leadership and Interpersonal Skills are Expanded!

Students enrolled in CTE programs can join local chapters of state and national student organizations which include Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), the National FFA Association (FFA), Skills USA, DECA, Florida Business Professionals of America (FLBPA), Florida Technology Student Association (FLTSA), Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), Career Education Clubs of Florida/BPA (CECF/BPA), and the Florida Public Service Association (FPSA). Participating in Career and Technical Student Organizations builds confidence as students demonstrate their skills and knowledge and many offer additional scholarship opportunities.

CTE Programs are Available in every Community!

Career education courses are offered at secondary schools in all 67 school districts, all 28 state colleges, and at 46 technical centers within the state. To enroll your teen or to learn more about CTE at the state level, visit the Career and Adult Education Division at the Florida Department of Education at fldoe.org/workforce

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Santa Fe College is committed to an environment that embraces diversity, respects the rights of all individuals, is open and accessible, and is free of harassment and discrimination. For more information, visit sfcollege.edu/eaeo.